Esther Smith

Esther Jean Smith, age 89, of Utica and formerly of New Albany, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, August 6th while surrounded by her loving family. Esther was born in Adena, Ohio, on March 21, 1933 to Raymond and Edith (Brackin) Bailey.

She met Donald Smith and the two were married in January of 1955. Together they had two children, Jim and Sherri. Esther was the matriarch of the family – she was a wonderful caretaker of their home and children throughout her life. She had a great passion for hosting holiday events, cooking meals, and hosting guests, and cared deeply for those in her family.

Esther’s life not only revolved around her family, but also her faith. She was a woman who attended church until her health no longer allowed. She passed that devotion along to her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Smith; and sisters Helen Springer and Edith Pauline Bailey.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Jim (Bev) Smith and Sherri (Jim) Cline; grandchildren, Joshua (Margaret) Smith, Ryan (Brandy) Smith, Tyler (Mariah) Cline, Megan (Ty) Miller, Cody (Greta) Cline, and Scott (Ashley) Cline; great-grandchildren, Sophie, Drew, Calvin, Violet, Tripp, Cash, Otto, Rhett, Halley, Dean, Cohen, Clara, and Callie; her loyal and loving Cavalier King Charles named Toby 2; and siblings, Raymond (aka Bud) Bailey and Louise Schram.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 from 10am-11am, followed by her funeral service at 11am at New Albany United Methodist Church, 20 3rd St., New Albany, Ohio 43054.